On the request of Government, the Asian Development Bank (ADB) has provided preparatory technical assistance to formulate a project to revive the fisheries sector in the four conflict affected districts of Jaffna, Mannar, Mullaitivu and Kilinochchi under the Northern Province Sustainable Fisheries Development Project.

The $ 62 million ADB supported project intends to support Gurunagar and three identified feasible fisheries harbours in Point Pedro in the Jaffna district and Pesalai in the Mannar district.

The Northern Province was one of the most productive fishing regions in the past. Fish production has decreased over the years due to the past 30 year old conflict that prevailed in the region. Fisheries infrastructure facilities are in the dilapidated stage and the proposed ADB funded project intends to develop fisheries harbours, anchorages, landing sites, and related infrastructure facilities.